Premier League to trial new system at 15 matches after the international break

IT’S COMING

The first trial will take place over five 3pm kick-offs on September 15 but the VAR hub will not have contact with the match officials

The Premier League is set to trial VAR at 15 matches this season starting after the international break.

It is understood the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) are looking to prove the system is fit for purpose before presenting its findings to Premier League shareholders next year.

VAR was used in four games during the second round of the Carabao Cup

If it’s a success, VAR could be introduced to the English top flight next season.

The first trial will take place for five 3pm kick-offs that are happening on Saturday September 15 to see if the VAR hub, based in Stockley Park, near Heathrow, is able to cope with decisions arising from multiple games.

The ‘as-live’ match scenario will be replicated in the VAR hub but there will be no contact between the team and the officials on the pitch.

VAR was used at four games during the second round of the Carabao Cup and is also due to be tested during selected FA Cup ties this season.

According to Sky Sports, the Premier League believe their decision to delay the introduction of the system until officials grew more familiar with it has been vindicated.

There were concerns VAR lost some support among fans after the controversial awarding of France a penalty in the World Cup final which set them on their way to a 4-2 victory over Croatia.